Integrated utensil and lid apparatus

ABSTRACT

An integrated utensil device includes a lid having an interface portion. The lid is configured to connect to an opening of a container. A tool portion is integrated with the interface portion. The tool portion includes a handle, an arm and a utensil portion.

BACKGROUND

Sugar, pepper and salt are some of the foods that are often left in exposed bowls, or containers with direct passage to the food by numerous contaminants—particularly in the commercial sector. Cafes have long relied on metallic, wooden, plastic or glass sugar, salt or pepper containers, that are often left for hours or even days exposed to the elements and at the mercy of airborne or human intervention and contaminants.

In one example, sugar bowls are often double dipped by users who take a spoonful of sugar then return for a second helping with the same spoon, which has sometimes been in the users mouth before it makes the second journey back to the sugar bowl or may still be wet from coffee or tea that was used for stirring before being dipped again.

Salt and pepper products (e.g., chili spices, seeds, etc.) are also touched by people multiple times, which is an infringement of food safety acts of most nations. Salt, pepper, sugar and other products are often treated as though they are not a food or that cross contamination will not occur. Food contaminants through these delivery methods are a significant problem worldwide and the products mentioned above are variously responsible for a significant proportion of person-to-person gastrointestinal maladies.

SUMMARY

Embodiments relate to combined lid and utensil devices. One embodiment includes an integrated utensil device having a lid with an interface portion. The lid is configured to connect to an opening of a container. A tool portion is integrated with the interface portion. The tool portion includes a handle, an arm and a utensil portion.

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become understood with reference to the following description, appended claims and accompanying figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an integrated utensil and lid device with an example container, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 2 shows an example perspective view of an isolated integrated utensil and lid device, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a front view of the isolated integrated utensil and lid device of FIG. 2, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a rear view of the isolated integrated utensil and lid device of FIG. 2, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a right-side view of the isolated integrated utensil and lid device of FIG. 2, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a left side view of the isolated integrated utensil and lid device of FIG. 2, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 7 is a top view of the isolated integrated utensil and lid device of FIG. 2, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the isolated integrated utensil and lid device of FIG. 2, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an example isolated integrated spoon and lid device, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an example isolated integrated utensil and lid device, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an example isolated integrated spoon and lid device, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an example integrated contoured spoon and lid device shown with an example container, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an isolated example of an integrated contoured spoon and lid device, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 14 shows an example of an integrated spoon and twist-type lid device, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 15 is a right-side view of an example integrated spoon with a fitted-type lid device and an example container, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the example integrated spoon with a fitted-type lid device and an example container of FIG. 15, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 17 is a left-side view of an example integrated spoon with a cover-type lid device and an example container, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the example integrated spoon with a cover-type lid device and an example container of FIG. 17, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 19A is a left-side zoomed in view of a portion of the example integrated spoon with a twist-type lid device and an example container shown in FIG. 19B, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 19B is a left-side view of an example integrated spoon with a twist-type lid device and an example container, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 20 is a left-side view of an exploded example of a clear or semi-clear integrated spoon with a fitted-type lid device and an example container, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 21 is a right-side view of an example of a clear or semi-clear integrated spoon with a twist-type lid device and an example container, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 22 is an isolated right-side view of an example of a clear or semi-clear integrated spoon with a twist-type lid device, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 23 is an isolated top perspective view of an example of a clear or semi-clear integrated spoon with a lid-cover device that holds a container lid, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 24 is a left-side view of an exploded example of an integrated spoon with a twist-type lid device and an example container, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 25 is a left-side view of an exploded example of an integrated spoon with a twist-type lid device with a top and top insertion portion shown with an example container, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 26 shows example left-side views of integrated spoon with a twist-type lid device shown with example containers, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 27 shows an example use of an integrated spoon with a fitted-type lid device shown with an example container, according to an embodiment; and

FIG. 28 shows an example placement use of a fitted-type lid device with an integrated spoon shown with an example container, according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The descriptions of the various embodiments have been presented for purposes of illustration, but are not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. The terminology used herein was chosen to best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application or technical improvement over technologies found in the marketplace, or to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.

Embodiments relate to combined lid and utensil devices. One embodiment includes an integrated utensil device including a lid having an interface portion. The lid is configured to connect to an opening of a container (e.g., a jar, a spice/seasoning container, a condiment container, fruits, vegetables, etc.). A tool portion is integrated with the interface portion. The tool portion includes a handle, an arm and a utensil portion (e.g., a spoon portion, a fork portion, a scoop portion, a measuring portion, a spear/harpoon portion, etc.).

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an integrated utensil and lid device 100 with an example container 150, according to an embodiment. In one embodiment, the integrated utensil and lid device 100 includes a lid 130 integrated with a utensil (e.g., a spoon, a spork, a fork, a knife, etc.) including a handle portion 110 and a utensil portion 140. The utensil is integrated with the lid 130 via an interface portion 120. In one example, the integrated utensil and lid device 100 helps prevent cross-contamination of food, spices, condiments, etc., especially in public places (e.g., cafes, restaurants, etc.), where the container 150 are often left exposed on a table for hours or days.

In one example, by the sight of the integrated utensil and lid device 100, people will not be inclined to use their provided spoon to take sugar to their cup as the utensil integrated with the lid 130 is made for this purpose. The integrated utensil and lid device 100 helps eliminating the so called “double dipping” putrefaction that occurs, for example, when patrons stir in sugar with already wet spoons (often people stir their drinks then reuse the same spoon for extra helpings—sometimes after the spoons have already been in their mouth.

The integrated utensil and lid device 100 has utility at home, in the office as well as in restaurants. In one example, a user may store their own select foodstuffs in a container 150 (e.g., ajar) with an affixed integrated utensil and lid device 100 and use it in a private way, such as storing spices, teas, any foods or any items whatsoever that could be disposed with, for example, a spoon utensil of a particular serving size for cooking recipes or use for medicines for dosing specific amounts, etc. The uses of the integrated utensil and lid device 100 are quite extensive and are not limited to any way of being used.

In one embodiment, the integrated utensil and lid device 100 may be manufactured by injection molding, pultrusion, handmade, cast in a mold, made of acrylic, plastics, glass, metal or metal alloys, etc. Worldwide bisphenol A (BPA) food standards may be applied for the integrated utensil and lid device 100 when made with plastics or naturally occurring materials such as wood or bamboo. In one example, the integrated utensil and lid device 100 may be made with toughened glass, treated bamboo, food grade metals, etc. In one embodiment, the integrated utensil and lid device 100 is rounded as one would expect from a basic jar and lid. The integrated utensil and lid device 100 may include a container 150 in any shape, such as squared, rectangular, etc.

In one embodiment, the integrated utensil and lid device 100 may be used for a myriad of products both edible and inedible, dry or wet, etc. In one embodiment, the integrated utensil and lid device 100 may use a lid 130 that is fitted to have a portion reside inside the container 150, flush mount (or lift-off) fitted to a top portion of a lid 130, a twist on/off type lid 130, an over-fitted type lid 130 that fits over an existing lid of a container 150 (e.g., when the lid 130 is made of a stretchable/flexible material), etc. In one example, the integrated utensil and lid device 100 may be colored, clear, etc.

In one example, the integrated utensil and lid device 100 provides the safety of a lid at all times when foods in a jar are not in use. Accordingly any lid 130 also provides protection from airborne or human sourced contaminants such as people speaking over and coughing or sneezing over the foods that are conventionally left exposed in open bowls, metal dome top sugar tubes, flip flop dispensers, etc. In one embodiment, the integrated utensil and lid device 100 is used by both the lid 130 and integrated utensil being simultaneously visible and simultaneously lifted in one clean motion as to achieve the task of delivering food as required while a user is being acutely aware that the integrated utensil and lid device 100 is neither just the user's spoon nor the user's lid but in fact a symbiotic and communal tool for a very specific product delivery; and not for the act of stirring one's own food. A fundamental difference here is that a user will not be inclined to use the integrated utensil and lid device 100 as his or her personal utensil (e.g., spoon). This negates the second delivery of, for example, sugar with a spoon which has already once made the journey as a stirring mechanism to a beverage or has already gone into the mouth of a user. In one example, the nature of the design of the integrated utensil and lid device 100 makes it amply visible as being communal that simple mistakes are not made to stir one's own beverage with the integrated utensil and lid device 100 when the utensil is a spoon.

FIG. 2 shows an example perspective view of an isolated integrated utensil and lid device 100, according to an embodiment. As seen, the integrated utensil and lid device 100 includes a stem portion 125 that may be made in any desired length to be used for a similarly depth of a container 150 (FIG. 1). FIG. 3 is a front view of the isolated integrated utensil and lid device 100 of FIG. 2, according to an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a rear view of the isolated integrated utensil and lid device 100 of FIG. 2, according to an embodiment. FIG. 5 is a right-side view of the isolated integrated utensil and lid device 100 of FIG. 2, according to an embodiment. FIG. 6 is a left-side view of the isolated integrated utensil and lid device 100 of FIG. 2, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a top view of the isolated integrated utensil and lid device 100 of FIG. 2, according to an embodiment. FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the isolated integrated utensil and lid device 100 of FIG. 2, according to an embodiment. In one embodiment, the lid 130 includes tabs 135 for holding a lid of container 150 (FIG. 1), or an identifier (e.g., a flat paper product, plastic product, metal product, etc. with identification or label) for associating with specific types of food, spice, etc.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the isolated integrated utensil and lid device 100 of FIG. 2 with the utensil being a spoon 141, according to an embodiment. In one example, the spoon 141 and stem 125 are parallel and outside of a container (e.g., container 150, FIG. 1) when the integrated utensil and lid device 100 is attached to the container.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an example isolated integrated utensil and lid device 100 with a lid 131, according to an embodiment. In one example, the lid 131 is a twist-on/off type of lid that attaches either directly to a container (e.g., container 150, FIG. 1) or to a lid of a container that is then twisted on/off of a container lid.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an example isolated integrated utensil and lid device 100, according to an embodiment. In one embodiment, the integrated utensil is a spoon 141. In one example, the spoon 141 may be sized according to the content of a container (e.g., container 150, FIG. 1). For example, the spoon 141 may be sized as a teaspoon, a tablespoon, or any other size desired.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an example integrated contoured spoon and lid device 1200 shown with an example container 151, according to an embodiment. In one embodiment, the lid 132 may be flush fitted to the container 151 with an insertion portion of the lid 132 that fits within the top portion of the container 151. In one embodiment, the utensil is a spoon 142 that is contoured to the bottom portion of the container 151. In one example, container 151 would normally include a twist on/off lid. The original lid (not shown) of the container 151 is removed and the integrated contoured spoon and lid device 1200 is placed onto the container 151 for a tight seal to cover/protect content placed in the container 151. FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an isolated example of an integrated contoured spoon and lid device 1200, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 14 shows an example of an integrated spoon and twist-type lid device, according to an embodiment. In one embodiment, the tabs 135 provide for the lid 130 to be twisted on/off of a top of a container (e.g., container 151, FIG. 12). In one embodiment, the lid 130 may include a seal or O-ring for an “air-tight” fit. In one embodiment, insert 121 provides for stability of the lid 130, or may be a seal for the lid 130.

FIG. 15 is a right-side view of an example integrated spoon with a fitted-type lid device 1500 and an example container 1510, according to an embodiment. As shown, the integrated spoon with a fitted-type lid device 1500 replaces the original lid of the container 1510. The integrated spoon with a fitted-type lid device 1500 is shown slightly above the container 1510. In one embodiment, the lid 133 includes an insertion portion 134 that fits within the opening 1511 of the container 1510 for a closed fit between the lid 133 and the container 1510. In one embodiment, the integrated spoon with a fitted-type lid device 1500 is a single integrated device. When a user picks up the integrated spoon with a fitted-type lid device 1500 by the handle 110, the complete lid 133 integrated with the spoon 141 is lifted off the container 1510. The spoon 141 cannot be separated from the lid 133. FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the example integrated spoon with a fitted-type lid device 1500 and an example container 1510, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a left-side view of an example integrated spoon with a cover-type lid device 1700 and an example container 1510, according to an embodiment. In one embodiment, the lid 136 covers the top of the container 1510. In one example, the lid 136 has a slightly larger diameter than the opening of the container 1510. The difference in diameter provides for the integrated spoon with a cover-type lid device 1700 to have a snug fit with the container 1510, which also maintains the integrated spoon with a cover-type lid device 1700 on the container 1510 so that it is not too easily dislodged. FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the example integrated spoon with a cover-type lid device 1700 and an example container 1510, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 19A is a left-side zoomed in view of a portion of the example integrated spoon with a twist-type lid device 1900 and an example container 1510 shown in FIG. 19B, according to an embodiment. In one embodiment, the lid 137 accommodates the original lid of the container 1510. In one example, the integrated spoon with a twist-type lid device 1900 snaps or holds the original lid of the container 1510 in order to twist on/off the threads 1511 of the container 1510. In one embodiment, the lid 137 includes tabs 135 (see FIG. 14). FIG. 19B is a left-side view of the example integrated spoon with a twist-type lid device 1900 and example container 1510, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a left-side view of an exploded example of a clear or semi-clear integrated spoon with a fitted-type lid device 1500 and an example container 2010, according to an embodiment. As shown, the utensil portion 140 is a spoon that includes the stem 125 and handle 110. In one embodiment, the utensil portion 140 may be parallel to the container 2010, or angled depending on the type or shape of the container 2010. The insertion portion 134 fits within the opening 2011 of the container 2010 for a close fit between the lid 133 and the container 2010.

FIG. 21 is a right-side view of an example of a clear or semi-clear integrated spoon with a twist-type lid device 2100 and an example container 2110, according to an embodiment. As shown, the utensil portion 140 is a spoon that includes the stem 125 and handle 110. In one embodiment, the utensil portion 140 may be parallel to the container 2010, or angled depending on the type or shape of the container 2110. The lid 138 twists on/off the threads 2111 of the container 2110 for a close fit between the lid 138 and the container 2110.

FIG. 22 is an isolated right-side view of an example of a clear or semi-clear integrated spoon with a twist-type lid device, according to an embodiment. As shown, the utensil portion 140 is a spoon that includes the stem 125 and handle 110. The lid 139 includes insertion portion 2110 that fits within an opening (e.g., opening 2011 of the container 2010, FIG. 21) of a container for a close fit between the lid 139 and the container.

FIG. 23 is an isolated top perspective view of an example of a clear or semi-clear integrated spoon with a lid-cover device 2310 that holds a container lid 2311, according to an embodiment. In one embodiment, the lid-cover device 2310 includes space underneath to accommodate the container lid 2311. In one embodiment, the container lid 2311 is press-fitted into the lid-cover device 2310. In another embodiment, the lid-cover device 2310 is held within the lid-cover device 2310 via an O-ring (e.g., a rubber O-ring). In still another embodiment, the lid-cover device 2310 may be flexible to tightly fit over the container lid 2311. In one example, since the integrated spoon with a lid-cover device 2310 that holds a container lid 2311 is clear or semi-clear, markings or a label on the container lid 2311 may be readily seen through the lid-cover device 2310. In one example, the integrated spoon with a lid-cover device 2310 that holds a container lid 2311 may be twisted on/off of a container.

FIG. 24 is a left-side view of an exploded example of an integrated spoon with a twist-type lid device 2400 and an example container 2410, according to an embodiment. In one embodiment, the lid 130 includes tabs (e.g., tabs 135, FIG. 14) so that the lid 130 may be twisted on/off of the threads 2411 of the container 2410. In one embodiment, the interface portion 120 has a width that fixes the distance between the lid 130 and the handle 110 and stem 125, which also determines the distance the utensil portion 140 (e.g., spoon) is from the container 2410 when the integrated spoon with a twist-type lid device 2400 is twisted onto the container 2410. Thus, for containers of different shapes, the interface portion is sized accordingly.

FIG. 25 is a left-side view of an exploded example of an integrated spoon with a twist-type lid device 2500 with a top 2532 and top insertion portion 2531 shown with an example container 2510, according to an embodiment. In one embodiment, the lid 2530 is a twist-type for twisting on/off of the threads of the container 2510. In one embodiment, the lid 2530 includes the top insertion portion 2531 that has a depth for inserting a top 2532, which can be colored, textured, have a label or logo, etc. The top 2532 may be used for identifying content placed into the container 2510. The top 2532 may have adhesive, press-fit, etc. for holding the top 2532 in the top insertion portion 2531.

FIG. 26 shows example 2600 of left-side views of integrated spoon with a twist-type lid devices shown with example containers 2610, according to an embodiment. In one embodiment, lid 2630 is a twist-type lid that directly twists on/off of the container 2610. In one embodiment, lid 2631 is a press-type lid that directly presses on/off of the container 2610. In one example, the lid 2631 is flexible and flexes or stretches onto the top of the container 2610 for a tight fit. The lid 2630 has a dark color and the lid 2631 has a light color, where the different colors may be used to distinguish different content of the containers 2610.

FIG. 27 shows an example 2700 for use of an integrated spoon with a fitted-type lid device shown with an example container 2710, according to an embodiment. In one embodiment, the lid 139 includes insertion portion 2110 that fits within an opening 2711 of the container 2710 for a close fit between the lid 139 and the container 2710. In the example 2700, the integrated spoon with a fitted-type lid device is shown scooping content from the container 2710 using the utensil portion 140, which is a spoon type of utensil.

FIG. 28 shows an example 2800 of placement of a fitted-type lid device with an integrated spoon shown with an example container 2710, according to an embodiment. In example 2800, the lid 139 with the insertion portion 2210 is being placed on the opening 2711 of the container 2710.

The embodiments are distinguishable from serving containers that include a spoon in either a slot in the lid (e.g., a side slot to accommodate the shaft of the spoon) or an opening of top slot to accommodate the shaft of the spoon, where the spoon is separate and can be taken and used in other containers, lost, etc. The embodiments include a utensil portion (e.g., a spoon utensil) that is integrated with the lid and is held in place outside of the container/jar and cannot be separated from the lid. In one example, densely structured nature of some foods such as sugar or salt make it impossible to reinstate a spoon into the original position within the jar without manipulation and digging the spoon into the content, which can potentially break or end a spoon shaft of conventional spoons.

In commercial settings that sell hot/cold beverages, users may add sugar from sugar bowls that are often left spoiled by clumpy bits of coagulated sugar and milk from the re dipping of wet spoons. The embodiments may help circumvent the act of double dipping spoons that have already been used physically and handled in ways specific and also provide hygiene requirements of protecting others from using foods that have already had traces of other people and bodily fluids and other contaminating potentials such as free roaming vermin.

Another benefit of the embodiments is that Cafe operators could abolish provided teaspoons. This would be achieved by providing swishing sticks or small disposable and renewable resource wooden spoons in place of metal spoons—as their patrons would not need a provided metal spoon as the swishing stick could act as the stirring device while the integrated lid and utensil acts as the delivery device of sugar.

There are also environmental gains by use of the embodiments. Metal spoons are lost at dramatic pace in commercial environments, often requiring replacement faster than any other hardware and in doing so-requiring much more embodied energy to manufacture, not to mention washing and drying with petrochemical detergents and solvents, and of course the expensive labor of staff being deflected toward the tasks of managing teaspoons instead of providing more useful services. The embodiments can also help in Juice Bars providing safety to the multitude of powders and seeds used in making of smoothies (which are all currently stored in large to medium Jars with rubber lids and hinged metal swing-tops). These lids stay open or ajar all day for quick access as the metals clips are awkward and time consuming during busy periods. In one embodiment, a larger version of the integrated lid and utensil device would always protect the expensive and delicate powders nuts, seeds and nutrients used in this sector. The embodiments are also useful in the pharmaceutical stores, herbalists stores, etc.

References in the claims to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only” unless explicitly so stated, but rather “one or more.” All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the above-described exemplary embodiment that are currently known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are intended to be encompassed by the present claims. No claim element herein is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. section 112, sixth paragraph, unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for” or “step for.”

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all means or step plus function elements in the claims below are intended to include any structure, material, or act for performing the function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. The description of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the invention in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the invention for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. 

1: An integrated utensil apparatus comprising: a lid integrated with an interface portion, the lid configured to couple to an opening of a container; and a tool portion integrated with the lid, the tool portion comprising a handle, an arm and a utensil portion, wherein the tool portion is configured to be disposed external to the container when the lid is coupled to the container. 2: The integrated utensil apparatus of claim 1, wherein the interface portion has a width that provides a fixed horizontal distance from between the lid and the arm, and the utensil portion comprises one of a spoon portion, a fork portion or a scoop portion. 3: The integrated utensil apparatus of claim 1, wherein the lid comprises an inner container coupling portion configured to fit within an opening of a container. 4: The integrated utensil apparatus of claim 1, wherein the lid comprises an outer container portion configured to fit over an opening of a container. 5: The integrated utensil apparatus of claim 1, wherein the lid comprises an outer container coupling portion configured to fit over a lid of a container. 6: The integrated utensil apparatus of claim 1, wherein the lid comprises a threaded portion configured to thread onto an opening of a container. 7: The integrated utensil apparatus of claim 1, wherein the lid comprises a recessed top portion configured to hold a cap element. 8: The integrated utensil apparatus of claim 1, wherein the lid is made of a clear material and comprises an upper inner portion configured to couple to a lid of a container. 9: The integrated utensil apparatus of claim 1, wherein the lid comprises a stretchable material configured to stretch over different sized container lids. 10: The integrated utensil apparatus of claim 1, wherein the tool portion is perpendicular to the lid. 11: The integrated utensil apparatus of claim 1, wherein the tool portion comprises a shape configured to contour to a lower portion of an external surface of a container. 12: The integrated utensil apparatus of claim 1, wherein the lid, the interface portion and the tool portion form a contiguous single device. 13: An apparatus comprising: a lid integrated with an interface portion, the lid configured to couple to an opening of a container; and a spoon integrated with the interface portion, the spoon comprising a handle, an arm and a concave tool portion, wherein the spoon is configured to be disposed external to the container when the lid is coupled to the container. 14: The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the lid comprises an inner container coupling portion configured to fit within an opening of a container. 15: The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the lid comprises an outer container coupling portion configured to fit over: a lid of a container or an opening of a container. 16: The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the lid comprises at least one of: a threaded portion configured to thread onto an opening of a container; a recessed top portion configured to hold a cap element; and a stretchable material configured to stretch over different sized container lids. 17: An apparatus comprising: a combined lid and spoon including an interface portion; and a container, wherein the combined lid and spoon is configured to couple to an opening of the container, and the spoon is configured to be disposed external to the container when the combined lid and spoon is coupled to the container. 18: The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the lid comprises an inner container coupling portion configured to fit within the opening of the container. 19: The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the combined lid and spoon comprises an outer container coupling portion configured to fit over: a lid of the container or then opening of the container. 20: The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the combined lid and spoon comprises at least one of: a threaded portion configured to thread onto the opening of the container; a recessed top portion configured to hold a cap element; and a stretchable material configured to stretch over a lid of the container. 